George parkrun is calling for volunteers

GEORGE NEWS - An urgent need of extra volunteers is the biggest factor preventing the relaunch of the George parkrun.

Under level 1 Covid regulations the parkrun may now resume, but without regular volunteers this will not be possible, said George parkrun liaison officer Wayne Ryder.

The parkrun team is also awaiting the final legal clearance certificate from parkrun Johannesburg that is required for a relaunch.

Covid regulations have forced parkrun George to double their number of volunteers to at least 20 people per event.

"This is where we ask the community to join our friendly team for a couple of hours on a Saturday morning," said Ryder. "After 18 months, our parkrun is nearly ready to roll again through the beautiful fern forest and botanical garden set at the foot of the majestic Outeniqua Mountains.

"You do not have to be a runner or walker to be an enthusiastic and helpful parkrun volunteer. Covid regulations will be applied at all events, including social distancing, where possible."

Volunteers are fundamental to the delivery of the parkrun and carry out roles such as setting up, marshalling, timekeeping, handing out finish tokens and tail walking.

"A total of 25 volunteers are required every Saturday, which means a pool of approximately 75 volunteers is needed to make up the team, as we certainly do not expect our volunteers to be pressured into being available every weekend. A weekly list is drawn up and volunteers announce their availability for the upcoming Saturday, choosing their choice of role," said Ryder.

A happy bunch

There is much to gain from volunteering. "You make social connections (we are a happy bunch), it provides a sense of belonging, confidence, as well as improved physical and mental health," said Ryder. "This is for the young and 'old', for the physically able and disabled people. Students wishing to gain community service points are also welcome.

"In fact, everyone is welcome. Get out into the healthy fresh air and serve your appreciative community. A course can never have too many marshals and multiple tail walkers can make the event more fun. The aim is to create an environment where people feel welcomed, included and supported.

"Please help George parkrun meet its volunteering target to be able to start up again. Grab a buddy or come on your own and give it a go."

To volunteer, send a WhatsApp to Wayne on 074 124 8596 or comment on the Facebook Page George parkrun.

He will answer questions and add you on the Volunteer WhatsApp group for further information. Volunteers from the age of 11 years are welcome, but all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Inspecting the course for potential hazards.